The Respect Goes Both Ways: An Interview with Jessica Conlon

BROOKLINE, MA — We're always excited to meet with and learn about our beloved SHI staff members. Jessica Conlon has been with us for 15 years and has worked in a number of different roles. In this interview, she shares her fondest memories from her time at SHI, talks about her own kids' relationships with the house members, and more.

You have a long and varied history with SHI. Please tell us about your many roles in our community.

I joined SHI in May 2007. 15 years and multiple roles later, I’m still here! I was hired to be an assistant manager for two of the Brookline homes, then I became a Program Manager, then a live-in, and I have now been a relief staff person for the past decade. 

Can you tell us why you have continued to work as a weekend staff person?

The house members and I are family and the respect goes both ways.

How did you hear about Specialized Housing?

I heard about SHI through my husband’s sister, Katie Fortier, who works as a clinical director here. She’s actually been on Team SHI for YEARS longer than me.

Take us through a typical work day in your current position.

I don’t think the word “typical” can be used here. As in most families, no day is the same. You learn really fast how to make your house run smoothly. 

What is the most inspiring part of your work at SHI?

The most inspiring part, hands down, is watching my kids treat everyone in and out of SHI the same, without adult prompts. When they meet a house member, all they see is someone to play with and will ask them to play catch, run after the soccer ball, blow bubbles, or chew the last piece of gum. They want house members at their soccer games, basketball games — you get the idea. The house members understand kids are curious and have answered every question they’ve had, all while keeping it G-rated. 

Do you have a favorite story from your years working with the SHI community?

Favorite story! Honestly, there’s not one that sticks out more than others. I have quite a few that can’t be made up, though. There has been dancing on New Year’s Eve, singing on the porch with no music playing — loud, for all to hear, going somewhere and “forgetting” to bring money, discussing politics, shoveling snow, going to farms, picking out Christmas trees, baking cookies, baking birthday cakes, stopping by the fire station to say hello, getting manis and pedis, and so many more…

And lastly, we’d love to learn more about your interests. Could you share something about a non-work hobby or passion?

Well, I love getting to be a mom of four humans, six chickens and a dog. I love to be in our vegetable garden. I love the ocean and living where seasons change. I have a crazy obsession with spray paint — instant gratification. I know way too much about dinosaurs. Jurassic Park (1993) is my favorite movie. Halloween and Thanksgiving are my favorite holidays, although my family counts down to Christmas all year long. Seriously, there could be 256 days left and someone will say “we need to work on our Christmas list.”